Hay said she was ashamed and that she was being a follower, trying to fit in with friends and influenced by the music she listened to.

The beauty queen said she has since grown up and hopes that others will learn from her mistake.

The Miss Universe Organisation condemned the tweets but has stood by her as critics called for Hay to lose her crown.

"I am honoured to hold this title and I will use this platform to promote the values of The Miss Universe Organisation, and my own, that recognise the confidence, beauty and perseverance of all women," she tweeted on Sunday.